Go beyond the classroom and immerse students in real science happening now at Mote's Elizabeth Moore International Center for Coral Reef Research & Restoration in the Florida Keys.
Choose from single day to multiple day activities, explore housing options, and more.
Request a program here.
*Any snorkel charter can be upgraded to a dive charter
See sample program schedules here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you provide housing?
Yes! After your Education Request Form is completed, a staff member will contact you and give further direction on how to book your housing accommodations.
Can Mote provide Food?
Mote cannot provide food to your group. Each apartment is equipped with a full kitchen including stove, oven, microwave, sink, and refrigerator for your use. There is a grocery store, Winn-Dixie on Big Pine Key, within 15 minutes drive from the lab. Additionally, in your Welcome Packet and in your rooms you will be provided a list of dining options in the area.
What types of programs do you offer?
We offer programs for Monroe County Schools, Traveling School Programs, Homeschool Programs, Virtual Programs, Internships, and Student Dive Program. Click each link to view more information, including prices.
Can I choose which activities we want within the program packages?
Pre-determined multi-day program schedules cannot be changed, however you can book any of the activities you see on the multi-day schedules as a single-day program. If booking any of the following programs individually, limit one activity per day.
Do we need our own transportation?
Yes. Mote cannot provide transportation for you. If you plan to leave the facility or your program includes a boat charter you will need to have your own vehicle to transport students.
Where are you located?
Mote’s Elizabeth Moore International Center for Coral Reef Research and Restoration is located on Summerland Key, FL. About 25 minutes from Key West and 3 hours from Miami. To view on Google Maps, click here.
Where is the closest airport to fly into?
Key West International Airport is the closest airport to our facility. However, flights are typically more expensive and rental cars less available. Most of our groups choose to fly into Miami or Fort Lauderdale.
What do students need to bring?
For a complete packing list, click here. This packing list is a suggestion. Depending on your program, some items included on this list may not be required for your visit.
Are there any waivers/forms to fill out prior to arrival?
Yes. Your group will receive a copy of these waivers at the time of your registration.
Waivers will be included in your confirmation email. Make sure to check your spam if you do not receive this email within 24 hours of registering.
All participants under the age of 18 will need waivers to be signed by their parents.
Students without completed waivers will not be able to participate in scheduled activities.
Booking Programs
What is the cost of my program?
The cost of our programs can vary greatly depending on the duration of your stay, how many students and chaperones you have, if you require accommodations, etc. To receive an estimated cost of your program, please fill out the reservation request form. Once completed, your Mote coordinator can provide you with a program quote.
How do I book a program?
When you are ready to book, you will receive a confirmation document that must be signed by the group contact. Once we receive a signed confirmation, an invoice will be prepared for your program. A 20% deposit is required to reserve your program and housing. The deposit will be due 14 days after you receive the invoice.
Can we change the number of students or chaperones after booking?
The number of participants can be changed up to 30 days prior to the program start date. After 30 days, numbers are confirmed per your invoice and confirmation agreement.
What if we need to cancel our trip?
If you cancel your reservation within 14 days of booking your visit and before paying your deposit, there will be no penalty. If you cancel your reservation 15 days or more after booking your visit, you will forfeit your 20% non-refundable deposit. If you cancel less than 30 days before your scheduled visit, no refund will be issued. Mote reserves the right to cancel or modify any program or schedule. Modification of a program schedule by Mote does not constitute grounds for a refund.
What if an activity gets cancelled due to bad weather?
In the event of inclement weather, your field experience may be cancelled. Whenever possible, Mote will schedule an alternative indoor excursion.
Payments
When is my deposit due?
A 20% deposit is due 14 days after you receive your organization's registration link. Your deposit is required to confirm your booking.
When is my final payment due?
Final payment is due 14 days prior to your arrival. If final payment is not made by the deadline, your reservation is subject to cancellation and you will forfeit your deposit.
How do I pay for my program?
Payment may be made via check or credit card. Please refer to your confirmation email for instructions on making your deposit and final payment.
Can students or chaperones pay separately?
Any additional persons/chaperones have to be included on the invoice, however they can be a separate line form OR a separate invoice if that's needed. The school/group is responsible for collecting those fees and either submitting those checks with theirs and/or collecting payment and then including that in their check.
Still have more questions?
- For any additional questions about payments, please contact educate@mote.org or 941-388-4441 ext. 348.
- For any questions about education programming, please email keyseducation@mote.org